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This guide covers all configuration steps from initial binary setup through genesis file preparation. Complete these steps before launching your network.
Related Documentation:

Overview

Building a Cosmos EVM chain involves two main configuration phases:
  1. Pre-Genesis Setup - Configure binary and source code before initialization
  2. Genesis Configuration - Set genesis parameters and prepare for network launch
Most pre-genesis parameters cannot easily be changed after launch. Plan carefully.

Planning Your Configuration

Before you begin, decide on these parameters. Use the links to jump to detailed configuration instructions for each item.

Pre-Genesis Parameters (Set Before init)

These parameters are compiled into your binary and must be set before running yourchain init:

Genesis Parameters (Set After init)

These parameters are configured in genesis.json after initialization:

Pre-Genesis Setup

Confirm these parameters before running yourchain init. These parameters are compiled into your binary, and determine how the genesis file is generated.

Chain Name

Bech32 Address Prefix

BIP44 Coin Type

EVM Chain ID

Token Decimal Precision

Default Denomination in Source

Genesis Configuration

After completing Pre-Genesis Setup and running yourchain init, configure your genesis file. The genesis file is located at ~/.yourchain/config/genesis.json.
Genesis parameters can be modified until you distribute the genesis file to validators. After the network launches, most parameters can only be changed through governance proposals.

Initialize Your Chain

Cosmos Chain ID

Genesis Time

Bank Denomination Metadata

VM Parameters

Active Precompiles

ERC20 Module

Fee Market (EIP-1559)

EVM Access Control

Staking Parameters

Slashing Parameters

Governance Parameters

Mint Parameters

Distribution Parameters

Initial Accounts and Validators

Next Steps

Your genesis file is now complete! Next:
  1. Distribute Genesis File to validators
  2. Configure Runtime Settings
  3. Launch Network
Continue to Runtime Configuration & Network Launch for full details.

Quick Reference

See: Configuration Reference for:
  • Command cheatsheets
  • Configuration examples
  • Default values table